AR-15 Diagram: A Comprehensive Guide
The AR-15, a firearm that has gained immense popularity among shooters and enthusiasts worldwide, is renowned for its versatility and reliability. In this detailed guide, we will delve into the various components of the AR-15, providing you with an in-depth understanding of its design and functionality.
Understanding the Basics
The AR-15 is a semi-automatic, gas-operated firearm that operates on the direct impingement system. It is chambered in various calibers, with .223 Remington and 5.56x45mm being the most common. The following diagram will help you visualize the different parts of the AR-15:
| Component | Description |
|---|---|
| Receiver | The receiver is the central part of the firearm, housing the bolt carrier group and the trigger assembly. It is typically made of aluminum or steel. |
| Bolt Carrier Group | The bolt carrier group is responsible for cycling the firearm, including the feeding, firing, and extracting of rounds. It is made of steel and contains the bolt, cam pin, and gas key. |
| Barrel | The barrel is the tube through which the bullet travels. It is rifled to impart spin to the bullet, ensuring accuracy. Barrels come in various lengths and calibers. |
| Gas System | The gas system is responsible for extracting energy from the expanding gases produced by the firing of a round. This energy is used to cycle the bolt carrier group. The gas system consists of the gas block, gas tube, and gas key. |
| Handguard | The handguard is the part of the firearm that covers the barrel and provides a grip for the shooter. It is typically made of aluminum, polymer, or carbon fiber. |
| Stock | The stock is the part of the firearm that provides a shoulder rest for the shooter. It can be adjustable or fixed and is typically made of aluminum, polymer, or wood. |
| Trigger Assembly | The trigger assembly is responsible for initiating the firing of the firearm. It includes the trigger, hammer, and sear. |
| Safety Selector | The safety selector allows the shooter to engage or disengage the firearm’s safety. It is typically located on the left side of the receiver. |
| Magazine | The magazine holds the rounds of ammunition. It can be inserted into the magazine well on the bottom of the receiver. |
Receiver
The receiver is the backbone of the AR-15, providing the structure for the firearm’s internal components. It is typically made of aluminum or steel, with aluminum being lighter and more durable. The receiver is available in various types, including the lower receiver and upper receiver.
The lower receiver is the part of the firearm that houses the magazine, trigger assembly, and safety selector. It is the only part of the firearm that requires a serial number, making it a critical component for legal compliance. The upper receiver, on the other hand, houses the barrel, bolt carrier group, and gas system. It is available in various calibers and barrel lengths, allowing for customization and personalization.
Bolt Carrier Group
The bolt carrier group is a critical component of the AR-15, responsible for cycling the firearm. It is made of steel and contains the bolt, cam pin, and gas key. The bolt is the part of the firearm that locks into the barrel extension and extracts the spent casing, while the cam pin holds the bolt in place. The gas key is a small metal piece that fits into the gas block, allowing the gas system to cycle the bolt carrier group.
Barrel
The barrel is the tube through which the bullet travels, and it is one of the most critical components of the AR-15. It is rifled to impart spin to the bullet, ensuring accuracy. Barrels come in various lengths and calibers, with common lengths being 16 inches, 18 inches
